District 153 Rep. Darrell Atchison has announced he will not seek a second term in the Missouri House.
Atchison said he made the announcement early so there would be time for candidates to come forward in advance of the November 2024 general election.
Filing opens Feb. 27, for the August 2024 primary.
“After much consideration, I have decided not to seek re-election in 2024,” Atchison said in a Capitol report released Tuesday. “Four years ago, Joanna and I were about to become empty nesters and everyone was healthy. Fast forward four years and we now have three grandchildren and some health issues in the family.
“These life changes and the amount of time away from home have brought about this decision.”
Atchison said he would continue to work hard for the next 14 months of his term. His seat represents Carter, Oregon and Ripley counties, as well as parts of Howell, Shannon and Wayne counties.
“I want to thank everyone that has helped along the way... It’s an honor to serve,” said Atchison, who lives in Williamsville.
At least one candidate has already announced his intention to run for the seat, Vinnie Clubb of Piedmont.
Clubb is a real estate agent and is also a Republican.
“I am grateful to Rep. Atchison for his work in the state house,” Clubb in a statement. “Now, it is more vital than ever before to keep this seat firmly under the guidance of an unapologetically Christian conservative representative. I vow to be a voice for our region’s rural values and never back down to the radical left.”
Clubb and his wife Rebekah have two children. He currently serves as the Wayne County president for the Missouri Farm Bureau and on other boards and committees. The family attends Victory Baptist Temple.
Atchison received 51% of votes in the August 2020 Republican primary against challengers Larry Kimbrow and Jack “Skip” Johnson. He ran unopposed in the November 2020 general election.
Atchison was sworn into office in January 2021. He replaced Rep. Jeff Shawan.
“I’m most interested in the doings and goings-on of the 153rd District. That’s what I ran on,” Atchison said at the time. “I’m passionate about listening to the citizens of the district and taking their message to Jefferson City.
“I think I have a good pulse of what’s going on, and the messages I hear are what I will tell the people in Jefferson City.”